Vincent Romano
Vincenzo Romano was an Italian Roman Catholic priest known for his simple lifestyle, dedication to orphans, and tireless work in rebuilding Naples after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 1794. He was beatified by Pope Paul VI in 1963 and canonized by Pope Francis in 2018.
- Century
- 19th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Born Vincenzo Domenico Romano on June 3, 1751, in Torre del Greco, Naples.
- ›Served as the parish priest of Herculano and was noted for his care of orphans and frugal living.
- ›Actively participated in rebuilding efforts in Naples after the 1794 eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
- ›Nicknamed "the Worker Priest" by the people of Torre del Greco for his commitment to the poor.
- ›Beatified by Pope Paul VI on November 17, 1963.
- ›Canonized by Pope Francis on October 14, 2018.
The Worker Priest
About Vincent Romano
Vincent Romano (1751–1831)
Vincenzo Romano, born Vincenzo Domenico Romano, was an Italian Roman Catholic priest who lived from June 3, 1751, to December 20, 1831. He was born in Torre del Greco in Naples and served as a parish priest in the village of Herculano. Romano is remembered for his simplistic and frugal way of life and his profound dedication to the care of orphans. His commitment to the social needs of people in the Neapolitan region earned him the nickname "The Worker Priest" from the people of Torre del Greco.
Life and Ministry
Born to poor parents, Romano developed a strong devotion to the Blessed Sacrament from a young age. Despite his father's initial wish for him to become a goldsmith, Romano pursued his vocation to the priesthood, supported by his older brother, Pietro, who was also a priest. After facing admission challenges, he commenced his studies for the priesthood in Naples at age fourteen and was ordained on June 10, 1775. He was assigned to Torre del Greco, where he lived an austere life and devoted himself to the care of orphans and the formation of seminarians.
Romano's faith and commitment were tested by natural disaster and political upheaval. Following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on June 15, 1794, he was instrumental in rebuilding his church, Santa Croce, and organized extensive rebuilding efforts, personally clearing rubble. During this time, he served as Santa Croce's treasurer and assistant pastor. He faced oppression from French invaders and various Italian political groups, yet continued his pastoral work, preaching five times a week with a simple message aimed at educating the faithful.
Canonization and Legacy
The process for Romano's beatification began on September 22, 1843, and he was declared Venerable by Pope Leo XIII in 1895, recognizing his heroic virtue. Two miracles attributed to his intercession were confirmed, leading to his beatification by Pope Paul VI on November 17, 1963. A third miracle was required for his canonization, which was confirmed by Pope Francis. Vincent Romano was canonized on October 14, 2018, in Saint Peter's Square.
His patronage extends to the Neapolitan priesthood, the town of Torre del Greco, orphans, and sailors, as well as protection against throat tumors. His remains are interred in his Santa Croce church in Torre del Greco.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Vincenzo Romano born and where?
Vincenzo Romano was born on June 3, 1751, in Torre del Greco, in metropolitan Naples, Italy. His parents were Nicola Luca and Maria Grazia Rivieccio.
What was Vincenzo Romano known for during his life?
He was known for his simple and frugal lifestyle, his great care for orphans, and his tireless work in rebuilding his community after the 1794 eruption of Mount Vesuvius. He was nicknamed "The Worker Priest" for his dedication to the poor and social needs of the Neapolitan region.
What is the process of canonization for Vincenzo Romano?
The cause for his canonization opened in 1843. He was declared Venerable in 1895 by Pope Leo XIII. Pope Paul VI beatified him in 1963 after recognizing two miracles attributed to his intercession. Pope Francis confirmed his canonization in 2018 after the validation of a third miracle.
What are the miracles attributed to Vincenzo Romano?
Two miracles were recognized for his beatification: the healing of Maria Carmela Restucci from a breast tumor in 1891 and the healing of Maria Carmela Cozzolino from a serious throat ailment in 1940. A third miracle, involving the cure of an Italian cancer patient, led to his canonization.
Who is Vincenzo Romano the patron saint of?
Vincenzo Romano was proclaimed the patron for the Neapolitan priesthood in 1964. He is also the patron of Torre del Greco, orphans, sailors, and against throat tumors.
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